As the final echoes of the past NHL season fade, a new chorus of anticipation rises, ushering in the perennial guessing game: who will claim individual glory in the 2025-26 campaign? While the ice remains pristine and the puck yet to drop, the hockey world, ever eager, turns its gaze to the future. This annual ritual of prognostication is more than mere speculation; it`s a deep dive into potential, a recognition of current dominance, and a hopeful glance at emerging narratives.
The offseason dust has settled, rosters are largely solidified, and with training camps on the horizon, the stage is set for a season of drama, heroics, and, inevitably, the crowning of champions – both collective and individual. The major awards represent hockey`s pinnacle of personal achievement, recognizing everything from the league`s most valuable player to its most promising newcomer. Let`s delve into the early contenders, separating the established titans from the hopeful dark horses.
The Hart Trophy: Who Claims MVP Status?
The Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to the player judged most valuable to his team, is the NHL`s ultimate individual accolade. History dictates that consecutive wins are rare, making each year a fresh canvas for dominance. After a goaltender`s surprising triumph last season, the question looms: will a skater reclaim the throne?
Favorite: Connor McDavid – The Inevitable Pursuit of Greatness
Is there truly any surprise here? Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, a player whose talent often defies description, once again leads the charge. While the league boasts an embarrassment of riches, McDavid`s gravitational pull on the game remains unparalleled. With multiple Hart Trophies already gracing his mantelpiece, he stands among legends like Gretzky and Orr. Coming off another deep playoff run that fell just short of the ultimate prize, one might surmise that McDavid`s motivation will be less about individual stats and more about leading his team, yet his individual brilliance often makes him the de facto MVP. The upcoming season could also mark a pivotal point in his Oilers tenure, adding another layer of intrigue to his performance.
Under the Radar: Auston Matthews – Toronto`s Lone Wolf Offensive Engine
In a league brimming with talent, identifying an “under-the-radar” MVP candidate requires a discerning eye. Toronto Maple Leafs sniper Auston Matthews fits the bill perfectly. Following a significant offseason reshuffling that saw key linemate Mitch Marner depart, Matthews finds himself tasked with shouldering an even greater offensive burden. He`s no stranger to the Hart, having won it in a spectacular 60-goal season. If he can elevate his game further and drag the Maple Leafs to significant success in a challenging division, his narrative of sole offensive general could resonate powerfully with voters.
Longshot: Mitch Marner – A Fresh Start, A Grand Statement?
From one Canadian powerhouse to another, Mitch Marner`s move to the Vegas Golden Knights represents a fascinating fresh start. Paired with Jack Eichel on a new top line, Marner`s elite playmaking abilities will be put to the test in a new environment. Coming off a career-high 100-point season, the potential for continued offensive brilliance is undeniable. While the odds might be long, a perfect storm of team success and Marner becoming the primary offensive catalyst in Vegas could see him defy expectations and enter the MVP conversation. It would certainly be a statement.
The Calder Trophy: The Next Generation Arrives
The Calder Memorial Trophy celebrates the NHL`s top rookie, often unveiling the stars of tomorrow. Unlike seasons graced by immediate generational talents like Crosby or McDavid, the 2025-26 class appears to be a fascinating mix of high-upside prospects ready to make their mark.
Favorite: Ivan Demidov – Montreal`s Russian Dynamo
Selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, Montreal Canadiens winger Ivan Demidov has already offered tantalizing glimpses of his NHL potential. His brief late-season cameo, including a goal in his debut, showcased a remarkable blend of vision and hockey IQ. Playing for a Canadiens team eyeing a playoff push after key acquisitions, Demidov could find himself in an ideal environment to thrive. His natural offensive instincts and polished game suggest he’s ready to make an immediate, impactful statement.
Under the Radar: Michael Misa – San Jose`s Offensive Prodigy
The San Jose Sharks have been diligently accumulating young talent, and Michael Misa, the second overall pick in the latest draft, is a prime example. An offensive wizard who put up staggering numbers in the OHL, Misa possesses the kind of raw skill that can instantly translate to the professional game. The only question mark is whether he`ll make the Sharks` opening night roster directly. If he does, his sheer scoring ability and flair for the dramatic could quickly establish him as a leading Calder candidate.
Longshot: Zayne Parekh – Calgary`s Blueline Maverick
Defensemen often take longer to adapt to the NHL, but Calgary Flames blueliner Zayne Parekh isn`t your typical rookie. Another 2024 first-round pick, Parekh also got a taste of NHL action late last season, scoring in his debut. His offensive game is electric, highlighted by a 100-point season in the OHL. If he secures a spot on the Flames` roster – a strong possibility, especially with potential roster changes – his ability to generate offense from the backend could make him a compelling longshot for the Calder. A defenseman winning it two years in a row? Stranger things have happened.
The Vezina Trophy: Reigning Supreme Between the Pipes
The Vezina Trophy honors the league`s best goaltender, a position often lauded for consistency and game-stealing performances. The recent dominance of one particular netminder makes this a particularly intriguing race.
Favorite: Connor Hellebuyck – The Winnipeg Wall
When you`ve won the Vezina Trophy in back-to-back seasons, and added a Hart Trophy for good measure, being the favorite is less a prediction and more an affirmation of ongoing mastery. Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck has been the epitome of consistency, posting elite statistics year after year. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to single-handedly win games make him the standard by which all other netminders are currently measured. Until another goalie can consistently match his output and impact, the Vezina remains Hellebuyck`s to lose.
Under the Radar: Dustin Wolf – Calgary`s Ascending Star
After a stellar rookie campaign that saw him finish second in Calder voting, Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf is poised for a significant leap. Stepping into the number one role, he demonstrated remarkable poise and skill, posting strong numbers for a team that made a playoff push. His .910 save percentage, tied for ninth in the league, hints at an elite ceiling. A Vezina in his sophomore year would be a monumental achievement, but Wolf has shown he possesses the talent and mental fortitude to contend with the league`s best.
Longshot: Sergei Bobrovsky – The Ageless Panther
Florida Panthers veteran Sergei Bobrovsky continues to defy Father Time, showcasing why he remains one of the league`s top goaltenders. As a key component of a Stanley Cup-winning team, his numbers in 2024-25 were impressive: low goals-against average and ample wins. While Hellebuyck`s shadow looms large, Bobrovsky`s ability to “lock in” and deliver Vezina-caliber performances, especially for a strong contender, means he can never be truly counted out. Sometimes, experience simply triumphs.
The Norris Trophy: The Blueline`s Offensive Maestros
The James Norris Memorial Trophy recognizes the NHL`s top defenseman, an award that often leans heavily towards offensive production from the back end. The battle for this trophy has been tightly contested in recent years, but a clear frontrunner has emerged.
Favorite: Cale Makar – Colorado`s Offensive Dynamo
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar isn`t just a blueliner; he`s an offensive force, a player who dictates the pace and trajectory of a game from his own zone. With two Norris Trophies in four years and a career-best 92-point season under his belt, Makar`s dominance is undeniable. His ability to score goals, set up plays, and quarterback the power play makes him arguably the most electrifying defenseman in the game. Until someone can consistently outshine his multifaceted offensive output, Makar remains the undisputed king of the blueline.
Under the Radar: Zach Werenski – Columbus`s Resurgent Defender
While Quinn Hughes often grabs headlines as Makar`s closest challenger, Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski deserves significant recognition. After battling injuries, Werenski has roared back, posting career-high offensive numbers and establishing himself as a formidable two-way force. His 139 points over the past two seasons underscore his impact. If he continues his ascent and leads the Blue Jackets to a more competitive season, Werenski offers tremendous value and could easily thrust himself into the Norris conversation.
Longshot: Evan Bouchard – The Oilers` Power Play Quarterback
In a league that increasingly values offensive defensemen, Edmonton Oilers blueliner Evan Bouchard thrives. While perhaps not as flashy defensively, his offensive instincts and powerful shot are undeniable. With 32 goals over the last two seasons and a fifth-place finish in Norris voting previously, Bouchard is a proven commodity. Playing alongside offensive titans like McDavid and Draisaitl certainly provides ample opportunity to pad those point totals, and if the Oilers make another deep run, his contributions from the blueline will be impossible to ignore. Sometimes, being in the right place at the right time, with the right teammates, is half the battle.
The 2025-26 NHL season promises to be a thrilling journey, not just for team glory, but for individual brilliance. From established legends solidifying their legacies to rising stars making their grand entrance, the race for these prestigious awards will provide compelling narratives throughout the year. Only time will tell which predictions hold true, but the anticipation itself is a significant part of the game.
Torin Vale 
Elton Marrow